Medical device maker BD (Becton Dickinson) has reached agreement with trade unions and employee representatives regarding the terms of a severance package for staff affected by the planned closure of its Drogheda manufacturing site.
In July, it was announced that the operation is to be wound down over the next two and a half years with the loss of around 200 jobs.
SIPTU members employed at the facility had engaged in industrial action over the planned closure of the plant.
The agreement on redundancy terms has been approved by a ballot of employees and followed negotiations between management and unions facilitated by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
"BD is very pleased that we have been able to reach a mutually beneficial agreement, and we are grateful to the Workplace Relations Commission for their assistance," said Mike Fairbourn, UK and Ireland General Manager for BD.
"The decision to close the Drogheda facility was not one that was taken lightly, and I am very aware of the impact this has had on our employees and the local community."
"This is why BD has committed to work collaboratively with the IDA and local officials to secure a new owner for the facility," Mr Fairbourn said.
SIPTU members employed at the plant in Drogheda voted overwhelmingly to accept the proposed redundancy package.
"General meetings were held with SIPTU members to discuss the proposal which set out the terms of the compulsory redundancies which will apply to 110 workers, who are to be made redundant by the end of March 2025, and the remaining workforce, of approximately 90 people, who will be made redundant in September 2026, when the site fully closes," said SIPTU Sector Organiser, Andrea Cleere.
"The acceptance by our members of these redundancy terms has brought clarity concerning the conclusion of their employment with Becton Dickinson and will now allow them to plan for their future," Ms Cleere said.
